August 2016

All Souls Church 2222 S Cliff Ave Sioux Falls, SD 57105 (605) 338-8652 www.sfuu.org allsoulssfi[email protected]

August 2016 Newsletter

All Souls is a welcoming spiritual community. We seek truth, practice love, and celebrate life.

August Worship Schedule Theme: Finding a Path to Peace Negotiating Racism: A Two-Part Worship Series August 7 Part 1: Building Bridges in Challenging Times 10:00am

Dr. Michael Saba will share his personal desire to make a difference, build bridges and work toward a peaceful world. He will describe his work and his experiences worldwide in places like post-apartheid South Africa and effective social reform strategies for reconciliation between disparate groups. He will then introduce us to a collaborative project here in South Dakota called the Truth and Reconciliation Movement. (Read the full details of Negotiating Racism Series on page 4) Speaker: Dr. Michael Saba Coordinator: Chris Provance

August 14 10:00am at All Souls --OR--

Musician: Kristi Holler

A Vision for Greater Justice… as the Circle Broadens Mark Sanderson, All Souls member, will talk about a vision for growth that moves from a posture of self-focus to encompass the Earth. . . and beyond. Mark has been a member of All Souls church for 36 years. He has grown up from a young adult to a senior citizen during this time. He will try to chronicle some elements of this journey –not unlike the journey that all of us take as we mature to the end of our lives.

10:30am at Tri-State Gathering

Speaker: Mark Sanderson Coordinator: Sue Ann Lang

August 21 10:00am

Negotiating Racism: A 2 Part Worship Series Part Two: “Experiences of Racism in South Dakota and the Truth and Reconciliation Movement” J.R. LaPlante was an honored guest speaker during All Souls' Journey toward Justice campaign in 2013 with an effort to repudiate the Doctrine of Discovery. He will return to All Souls to share his experiences as a minority in South Dakota. He and Clara Hart will then continue where Dr. Saba left off describing the South Dakota Truth and Reconciliation Movement and what we can do to be an active part of that movement. (Read the full details of the Negotiating Racism series on page 4)

Musician: Kristi Holler

--OR-Tri-State Gathering, Worthington, MN “A Simple Faith: Religion that Makes Sense” Speaker is Rev. Wesley Hromatko. Details on page 3.

Speakers: J.R. LaPlante and Clara Hart Coordinator: Julia Tibbets

August 28 10:00am

Musician: Kristi Holler

You Can’t Give What You Don’t Have Rev. Kristi McLaughlin, pastor and former director of the SD Center for Peace and Justice, will speak about the importance of centering and living a life in peace. Kristi will discuss the importance of nourishing our own spirit in order to gain strength when working through tough issues in the outside world. She will also take us through a guided meditation to find peace within ourselves. Speaker: Rev. Kristi McCloughlin Coordinator: Sue Ann Lang

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Musician: Kristi Holler

A Month of Fairwells for Rev. Kraemer The weather could not have been better, the food was delicious and mostly healthy, and Adams Homestead provided a beautiful place for Sioux City UUs and All Souls to give David a wonderful send-off on July 17.

Despite the stifling heat, All Souls members and friends gathered in the home of Joy Hembel and Paul Thompson on July 22 for a fairwell celebration honoring Rev. Kraemer and his wife Mary. The event was well attended and was an enjoyable evening for all, with delicious food and enlightening conversations. The final fairwell event was held on July 24 after Rev. Kraemer’s last sermon at All Souls.

Above: On July 24, a special “Best Wishes” cake for Rev. Kraemer and his wife Mary, was served after the service, in Eliza’s Kitchen. Above and Below: A gathering of All Souls and Sioux City UU’s at Adam’s Homestead to send-off Rev. Kraemer.

Rev. Kraemer reads a story, The White Horse Girl and the Blue Wind Boy by Carl Sandburg.

Above: Musician Kristi Holler and All Soul’s president Claudia Dail wish Rev. David Kraemer a fond farewell after his last sermon on July 24.

Above: Rev. David Kraemer demonstrates a yoga pose for the congregation at his last sermon on July 24. View the YouTube video at the link below.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DfmzDoYxOM

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From the President Claudia Dail August 2016 It’s like a good book, you know it is going to end but you don’t want it to. Rev. David’s time with All Souls has come to an end and as I reflect on the last 2 years, it has been rather remarkable. I suppose it could be viewed as a church going about its business to some. I’ve had the opportunity to view the years unfold as an insider – being on the Board and as a recent member with new eyes. I was drawn to All Souls for many reasons, but one of the main reasons I stayed was Armida’s wisdom and wonderful storytelling style. She was a sage who prompted me to think deeper and see the world differently. Who can argue with a woman who wants to retire at the age of 80? It was a wonderful time for All Souls and I wondered as the “book” ended “is there anyone who can touch us so beautifully again?” As the next book began, I was intrigued by this man who was so different, yet got my attention and made me want to come back to hear him again. Now, as a member of the Board, I was part of the team who keeps the church functioning. David’s business sense and knowledge of administration brought new ideas and opened us up to seeing

things in a different way. His enthusiasm and hard work (from power sawing to painting to leading a strategic planning session, and so much more) have made a huge impact on our church. He is leaving to lead another congregation and reconnect with family, so the “book” has a wonderful ending. The next “book” is beginning and this will be a time for our congregation to shine. The committee restructuring brainstorming session was a great success with 30 members and friends participating and sharing their voices. The first Wednesday evening session on happiness had over 20 people gathering to hear more of Walker’s thoughts and information. There are 2 more sessions in the series which will be discussion-focused so we can broaden our understanding. As you can see, the first chapter is exciting and engaging, and this is only the beginning. Transition and change are a time for introspection and envisioning the future. I’m an optimist and feel excited about the possibilities that are unfolding, yet there is an element of realist in me that knows this will be a challenging time for some members and friends of All Souls. Your voice, concerns and comments are important. Share them with any member of the Board or myself. I hope you will be part of the next chapters and help as All Souls continues to grow and nurture our members and friends. Cheers, Claudia

Save the Date Tri-State Gathering August 14

Save the Date

Make plans to attend the Tri-State Gathering at 10:30am on Sunday, August 14, at Nobles County Pioneer Village, 1600 Stower Drive, Worthington, MN. Gather for a service and potluck at the historic Nobles County Pioneer Village. Broaden the circle of our UU family. Join UUs from southern Minnesota, eastern south Dakota and northwestern Iowa. Schedule: 10:30 Gather, 11:00 Service, 12:00 Potluck Service: “ “A Simple Faith: Religion that Makes Sense” This sermon started when it was said our church couldn't be explained to a working person. This notion is backwards. We have been accused of being elitists, but we are welcoming. Come and find out. Reverend Wesley Hromatko is the speaker. Potluck: Please bring a dish to share and your own place settings. For more information: norachurch @ sleepyeyetel.net Nobles County Pioneer Village: www.noblespioneervillage.com

2016 Tri-State Gathering Sunday, August 14

Speaker: Rev. Wesley Hromatko

Nobles County Pioneer Village, Worthington,MN

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Negotiating Racism: A Two-Part Worship Series Submitted by Chris Provance During August, we will have a two-part worship series on August 7 and 21. We are fortunate to have 3 powerful guest speakers joining us at All Souls UU Church for this series. Each of these three speakers have experienced both success and challenge as they negotiate stereotyping and racism in South Dakota. Each of them has entered into politics because of their dedication to social justice and equality in South Dakota. They have also entered into collaboration with each other in order to open an honest and thoughtful dialogue about racism and equality in Sioux Falls and beyond. August 7, 2016: Negotiating Racism - Part 1 Building Bridges in Challenging Times Dr. Michael Saba will share his personal desire to make a difference, build bridges and work toward a peaceful world. He will describe his work his experiences worldwide in places like post-apartheid South Africa and effective social reform strategies for reconciliation between disparate groups. He will then introduce us to a collaborative project here in South Dakota called the Truth and Reconciliation Movement. August 21, 2016: Negotiating Racism - Part 2 Experiences of Racism in South Dakota and the Truth and Reconciliation Movement J.R. LaPlante was an honored guest speaker during All Souls' Journey toward Justice campaign in 2013 with an effort to repudiate the Doctrine of Discovery. He will return to All Souls to share his experiences as a minority in South Dakota. He and Clara Hart will then continue where Dr. Saba left off describing the South Dakota Truth and Reconciliation Movement and what we can do to be an active part of that movement.

Dr. Michael Saba To Speak on August 7 Bio: Dr. Michael Saba, whose father was a Lebanese immigrant, has enjoyed a career serving others by promoting dialogue and built bridges across cultural and community differences. He has met every U.S. president going back to Dwight Eisenhower (with the exception of George W. Bush), and once spent several days in the Arabian Desert with Nelson Mandela. Saba was among a group of Americans taken hostage in Iraq by Saddam Hussein during the 1990 Gulf War, and escaped through the Jordanian border, leading to appearances on “Nightline” and “Oprah.” He has served in the Peace Corp, published books on international affairs, and served as the Director of Development for children’s clinics throughout the world. Today, Saba is a development consultant for the Avera McKennan Foundation and he is running for one of two open District 9 House seats. He says he is entering politics because he is concerned about South Dakota’s direction during the past legislative session. He also serves on numerous organizational boards welcoming and supporting immigrants in Sioux Falls.

Clara Hart To Speak on August 21

Bio: Clara Hart was born in Mozambique, in southern Africa. In 1964, Communist-backed guerillas launched a campaign against Portuguese colonial rule over Mozambique. In 1966, when Hart was eight years old, her family fled the violence in their homeland. They passed through Malawi to Tanzania, where they lived as refugees for three and a half years. UNHCR gave Clara’s family refugee LeRoy “JR” LaPlante status. They lived in Kenya for nineteen years, with finanTo Speak on August 21 cial assistance from UNHCR for a few years to pay rent, Bio: Attorney J.R. LaPlante is an bus fare, and school fees. After several years attempting enrolled member of the Cheyenne to immigrate and find a home in the USA, Clara found River Sioux Tribe. He is a 2009 gradu- her way to South Dakota where she says people were ate of the University of South Dakota known to be supportive and open. She obtained a School of Law, and served as the first bachelor’s degree in political science and history from Secretary of Tribal Relations for the State of South Dakota. the University of Sioux Falls and recently a master’s deHe has also served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney, and as gree in social work from the University of South Dakota. Tribal Liaison with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the State Clara has worked with immigrant families in the Sioux of South Dakota. J.R. is running for a South Dakota Leg- Falls school district to help them settle into their new islative seat in District 14. lives in America. Hart is running for District 6 House. Page 4

Adult RE on Tap Authentic Happiness Get serious about having fun! Walker Wynkoop referred to Martin Seligman's work aligning the latest in brain research and the psychology of happiness in his presentation in June. Let’s “get serious about having fun” and join the group on Wednesday nights at 5:30pm on August 10 and September 14 to discuss Seligman's research and methods using Seligman’s book as a guide while enhancing our own mental, moral and spiritual well-being. Even if you missed the first session, you are still welcome to join us. No book? No problem!! Just go to the website below, watch a video, and do one or three questionnaires that interest you [They are quick!]. A good place to start is with the 4-minute video Chris Peterson: What Makes Life Worth Living? And the questionnaires on PERMA and Fordyce. Please bring your tablet, smartphone, or laptop and we can do some real time questionnaires! [If you have both a smartphone and a tablet or laptop, consider bringing both if you are willing to share with those that do not!] Website signup is fast and free and they don’t use for marketing. www.authentichappiness.sas.upenn.edu/home. Bring a beverage of your choice, a munchie to share, and be ready to engage in a light and lively discussion about self-discovery.

Hey guys, I’ve got an un-plan.

Men's Un-Group

5:00p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 17 Monk's House of Ale Repute, 420 E 8th St, Sioux Falls

They Are Here! 2016-2017 Church Directory Be sure to stop by the church office and pick up the latest copy of the Church Directory.

Standing on the Side of Love T-Shirt Orders

FREE Dandelion Bouquets

The most recent LGBT issue the Sioux Falls City Council was facing raised a comment about All Souls members attending and wearing “Standing on the Side of Love” T-shirts to make a statement. The order has come in and we have one large and two XLarge in the office for the price of $20 each. Contact Holly if interested at allsoulssfi[email protected]

Volunteers needed for help with cleaning and building/grounds mainenance.

Building/Grounds Work Session Monday, August 15 • 5:30-7pm Page 5

GET INVOLVED!

Make the most of your experience at All Souls.  Get involved in the many groups and  committees here. There is something for everyone.

Library

Pages from Our Past All Soul’s Library History

Committee Restructuring Brainstorming Session

Submitted By Linda Hallstrom Eliza Tupper Wilkes, founder of All Souls Church, also helped to start the first library in Sioux Falls. In 1881, local women organized the Ladies News History Club with a goal of establishing a public library. As a member of the History Club, Eliza chose the very first books for the Sioux Falls Public Library. With donations of $135, the club purchased about 100 books. When the Sioux Falls Library Association was incorporated on August 4, 1886, Eliza served on the Board of Directors. [Source: A History of Minnehaha County, Dana Reed Bailey] The original All Souls Church building at 12th and Dakota was gifted to the city by W.H. and Winona Lyon in 1899 for use as a public library. A belief in the importance of books and reading has been part of All Souls since our founding. Today, we maintain a library of current and classic books for our members. Explore our online catalog or visit our library whenever the church is open. Check out a book or two — Eliza would be proud! “What an astonishing thing a book is. It’s a flat object made from a tree with flexible parts on which are imprinted lots of funny dark squiggles. But one glance at it and you’re inside the mind of another person, maybe somebody dead for thousands of years. Across the millennia, an author is speaking clearly and silently inside your head, directly to you. Writing is perhaps the greatest of human inventions, binding together people who never knew each other, citizens of distant epochs. Books break the shackles of time. A book is proof that humans are capable of working magic.” ~ Carl Sagan

Wow! 30 people stayed for lunch and to reimagine how committees are structured after services on July 10. Rev. David facilitated the discussion and there were many valuable and interesting ideas shared. The Board and COC will continue the conversation in August using the ideas generated. Thank you to all who participated.

Above and Below: Brainstorming session participants on July 10, 2016.

“Peace is a daily, a weekly, a monthly process, gradually changing opinions, slowly eroding old barriers, quietly building new structures.” ~ John F. Kennedy

Church Board Minutes Available Here is a reminder that church board minutes are available for review in a binder in the church office, or you can request to have the minutes emailed to you by contacting the office adminstrator at [email protected].

NOTICE: For security reasons, the church basement door will be locked on Sundays from 10:00-11:00am. Please plan to use the front door if you will arrive during that time. Thank you!

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We Care!

Of Interest to Members Citizens’ Climate Lobby

All Souls Care Team

Submitted by Mark Sanderson One of the important roles that Rev. Kraemer played while in our midst was pastoral visits/contacts. Of course we cannot fill that gap, nor should attempt to do so. We will be continuing with the informal caring contacts that have been on-going in our congregation, even in the midst of Rev. David’s work. Our Care Team (not a committee) is keyed to keep an eye and ear to members and friends of our community – to look for transitions or bumps in the roads of life. If you know of someone who needs to be contacted, please feel free to pass on this information to one of the Care Team members. They are: Mark Sanderson, 941-1841; Nelson Vollink, 605-371-8574; Marsha Vickland, 605-339-2601; & Gina Pfarr-Natz, 605-929-2175.

Book Club Resumes 7:00 p.m., August 24

“Peace cannot be achieved through violence, it can only be attained through understanding.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Life’s a Beach!

August 24 will be the first gathering of the year for the book club. Discusion will be the selection of books to read for the 2016-2017 year. Guidelines for the book selection. 1. Recommended books should be of length so it can be read in one month. 2. Person recommending book should have read it. 3. One recommendation per person. Questions or comments can be directed to Barb Peterson, who currently coordinates club activities at barbpeterson @ sio.midco.net.

“An eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind.” ~ Mahatma Gandhi

Multiple All Soul’s Member have expressed an interest in Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL). Citizens’ Climate Lobby exists to EMPOWER citizens to connect with and influence their members of Congress; to spread the idea that each one of us can address climate change solutions like Carbon Fee and Dividend. Volunteer for climate change and bring your voice to Citizens’ Climate Lobby! The next meeting is on Saturday August 13 and again on Saturday September 10 at 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Each meeting involves a conference call from the National CCL organization at Noon Central Time. The last call was under 40 min. This is the website for the organization: https://citizensclimatelobby.org/volunteer-climate-change/?gclid=CJC5wrW_jM0CFUIfhgodmeYL5w

All Souls Women’s Group Tue., Aug. 9 at 5:00pm Granite City, 2620 S Louise Ave., Sioux Falls

Where can you find us? www.sfuu.org • twitter.com/AllSoulsUU • www.facebook.com www.facebook.com/pages/All-Souls-Unitarian-Universalist-Sioux-Falls/177302048964724 Our private member Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/66794055861/ Page 7

Dated material: Please Deliver Promptly Submissions, comments or questions about the newsletter? [email protected]

PO Box 400 Sioux Falls, SD 57101 605.338.8652|sfuu.org RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

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